Thios.
belongs to the same chemical group as Urea. The
colourless bitter crystals are soluble in water, alcohol, and ether. Thios. has been used externally and internally in cases of lupus,
chronic glandular tumours, and for dissolving scar tissue; and internally for resolving
tumours of the uterine appendages. The usual internal dose in old-school practice is 4 to 8
grains once a day given hypodermically in a 15 per cent. solution. C. H. Pennoyer (quoted Pac. C. J. of H. viii. 199) relates this case: Mrs. C., 69, had
been several years ill with gastric distress, sciatica, pains in hips down to knees; < by motion. Indigestion, flatulence of stomach and bowels, < after eating. Pain in back. Inability to walk; much
perspiration; depression of spirits; and subnormal temperature. Her father had died at 69 of
stomach trouble; mother at 58 of stricture of the bowel. Examination showed stricture of
rectum two inches above anus, there being a tense fibrous band forming a ring opening, which
would not admit the index finger. Bougies and mechanical measures failed to relieve.
Weakness was so great, patient would faint at stool. Under general treatment nutrition
improved, but the local condition was unchanged. A year later the stricture was slightly
increased. Thios. was now given, gr. ii. twice daily.
The following year the patient was found much improved. Examination showed that the cicatricial band had gone, the speculum could be introduced, and
the mucous membrane was normal in appearance, though not as distensible as a normal rectum
should be. W. Spencer (H. M., xxxiv. 55) has applied
this property of resolving cicatricial tissues in cases of tinnitus aurium "where the
ossicles are bound down, and the function of the tympanic cavity so much impaired by fibrous
bands or adhesions." In such cases he has had encouraging success. Enlarged lymphatic
glands have been reduced in the same way. A few symptoms observed on patients under
treatment I have arranged in the Schema with some cured symptoms.